For Honors student Elsa Covi, making the leap from Omaha to Lawrence wasn’t just about choosing a college — it was about carving out her own path. 

Elsa has found a home at the University of Kansas, where tradition, spirit, and opportunity intersect. She wanted a school within driving distance but still far enough to be independent. A campus visit convinced her that KU’s spirit and sense of community made it the right place to grow academically and personally.

Adjusting to Lawrence also brought unexpected excitement. Coming from a high school in Nebraska where basketball wasn’t a big deal, Elsa quickly embraced KU’s sports culture and discovered a campus that encourages connection, leadership, and making a difference.

Q: You’re from Omaha, Nebraska. What was your reason for coming to KU? Was it a specific program or something else that drew you here?

A: I wanted to be within driving distance, somewhere my parents could just show up on a weekend. Also, no one from my family had gone to KU, and I wanted a school of my own. I wasn’t set on KU initially, but the school spirit and tradition impressed me. Even though it was pouring rain when I visited, I still chose it, so I think that says a lot!

Q: What’s your major? Were there specific reasons KU stood out compared to in-state schools?

A: I’m a psychology major, pre-med, with a minor in education, and I’m in the Honors Program. I knew I didn’t want to stay in state. I always wanted to branch out! KU was within driving distance, so my parents could see me, but it wasn’t the same small circle as Lincoln or the Nebraska options. Stepping out of my comfort zone was hard, but I’m so glad I did.

Q: Have you gained anything that surprised you in your KU years so far with that independence or being on your own?

A: Coming from Omaha, which is bigger than Lawrence, being in a college town where everybody’s for the Jayhawks all the time was a learning curve, and it’s been so much fun. All of Nebraska loves the Huskers, but this is Jayhawk central!

Q: You mentioned the Honors program. Any great experiences through that? 

A: Yes. Your first-year symposium is so worthwhile; you present your research to an audience that knows nothing about it. It’s a professional event that prepares you for future presentations. The KU Honors Program also strongly supports study abroad, which I plan to do next summer.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about living in Lawrence so far?

A: It’s adorable and feels like such a tight-knit community. Beyond the school spirit, it feels like one big neighborhood. The farmer’s market, downtown — everything feels interconnected. You feel like you’re in the middle of Kansas, but also close to Kansas City, so it’s never dull. It’s not too big to feel overwhelming.

There's also a Runza here. That was something I didn't know, and when I found out, I was like, ‘Oh, it's like home. They have a Runza.’ This is the only one in the whole state of Kansas. I was so happy. Got my ranch.

Q: Being so close to KC is a fun benefit for KU students. Have you spent much time in Kansas City as a Lawrence resident?

A: Yes. My freshman roommates were from Kansas City. I’ve gone to Crown Center for ice skating, visited their neighborhoods, gone to concerts, museums, just random weekend trips.

Q: Is there a KU tradition you think everyone should experience?

A: Allen Fieldhouse! When the lights go off, the hype video starts, and the newspapers fly, it’s incredible. Being from Nebraska, I did not watch basketball. I never went to my high school games, and I didn’t even know KU was a national champion until I got here. But once you go, you’ll love basketball and Allen Fieldhouse — you just do.

Q: How does KU feel like home to you?

A: I was nervous because I didn’t have close friends coming here, but so many people — staff and student organizations — want to get to know you and make the campus feel smaller. It reminded me of home, even if I’m not doing the same things I did in Omaha. The sense of community is the same.

Q: Is there a moment at KU when you really felt like a Jayhawk?

A: My first football game. After the first touchdown, both sides yell, “Rock chalk, Jayhawk.” I remember thinking, this isn’t like Husker football, but it’s so loud and deeply rooted. You could feel it in the air with students, families, and alumni. That was a real moment.

Q: What are your favorite spots in Lawrence or on campus?

A: Clinton Lake is one. We love grabbing Sonic for a sunset drive out there. I also love a coffee shop called Cleo and Leo. I spend a lot of time on campus, especially the second floor of Anschutz Library. I love whiteboards — it’s my go-to study spot.

Q: Are you involved in any campus clubs or organizations?

A: Yes. I hold an executive position in my sorority, am part of a pre-health fraternity where I’ve held positions, volunteer, and work for the Transition to Postsecondary Education program through the School of Education and Human Sciences. I’m also a campus ministry leader for Story Hill.

Q: What stands out to you about the student body and KU community?

A: Everyone here wants to be a Jayhawk, be involved, and make a difference. That drives you to take initiative, and if you want something done, there’s always a group that wants it done too. I knew I wanted a school where I could make a difference, and KU allows that through service opportunities and strong community support.

Professors and students at KU truly want you to succeed. I’ve grown in boldness and in advocating for myself because there are things worth standing up for here.

Q: What are the benefits of living on campus as a freshman?

A: Living on campus teaches time management, independence, and how to navigate a new city. Being on the Hill means there’s always something happening, so you’re never bored.

Q: What advice would you give someone considering KU?

A: Come visit, talk to a student, see the campus, and experience Lawrence. You have to be here to feel it — you just get it when you see it.